noun
amethyst
AM-uh-thihst
Amethyst (noun) means a purple or violet variety of quartz used as a gemstone. Example: “Her ring was set with a deep purple amethyst.”
noun
1
A purple or violet variety of quartz used as a gemstone.
"Her ring was set with a deep purple amethyst."
2
A purple color, similar to the gemstone.
"The walls were painted a soft shade of amethyst."
How to use amethyst
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA purple gemstone, or the purple color itself.
Common pairings
amethyst ring
shade of amethyst
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Word forms
- Plural
- amethysts
- Comparative
- more amethyst
- Superlative
- most amethyst
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Her ring was set with a deep purple _____.
Etymology
From Greek amethystos, "not drunk" — ancient Greeks believed wearing or drinking from amethyst could prevent drunkenness.
Frequently asked questions
What does “amethyst” mean?
The word “amethyst” means a purple or violet variety of quartz used as a gemstone. In plain terms, a purple gemstone, or the purple color itself.
How do you pronounce “amethyst”?
“Amethyst” is pronounced AM-uh-thihst (/ˈæm.ə.θɪst/ in IPA).
How do you use “amethyst” in a sentence?
Here is “amethyst” used in a sentence: “Her ring was set with a deep purple amethyst.”
What part of speech is “amethyst”?
“Amethyst” is a noun.
Where does the word “amethyst” come from?
The word “amethyst” comes from Ancient Greek. From Greek amethystos, "not drunk" — ancient Greeks believed wearing or drinking from amethyst could prevent drunkenness.
How many meanings does “amethyst” have?
“Amethyst” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a purple or violet variety of quartz used as a gemstone.
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